Modern Mammograms: Easier, Faster, and More Comfortable Than Ever

With Whitney Randles, Mammography Technologist, Advanced Shore Imaging Associates

If you've been putting off your screening mammogram, you're not alone. Many people delay this important test, sometimes for years, because they're afraid it will hurt, they worry about the results, or they just can't seem to find the time.

But thanks to new technology, flexible scheduling, and a compassionate care team at Advanced Shore Imaging Associates (ASIA) in Northfield, getting your mammogram is easier, faster, and more comfortable than ever. ASIA Mammography Technologist Whitney Randles shares why there's no reason to delay.

Reason #1: "I'm Afraid It Will Hurt."
This is the number one fear Whitney hears from patients. "Compression is what worries people most," she says. "Not knowing how long it will last or how much it will hurt can cause a lot of anxiety."

ASIA's new Hologic Selenia Dimensions mammography system with SmartCurve technology was designed to solve that problem.

"On our old machine, it took multiple steps to get the images we needed. We had to compress the breast once, take a 2D image, move the equipment, compress again and take the 3D images, and then do it all over again on the other breast," Whitney explains. "Now, everything happens on each breast in one sweep, and compression is released quickly. We timed it, and found that on the new system, breasts are compressed only 60 seconds total - that's 40 seconds less time in compression than our previous machine. Every second counts when you're having your breast compressed!"

And then there's the SmartCurve breast stabilization system, a true game-changer for comfort.

"Traditional flat paddles can pinch because the breast is forced flat like a piece of paper, which it isn't naturally," says Whitney. "SmartCurve paddles match the natural curve of the breast, reducing pinching and distributing pressure more evenly. I always show patients the paddle and explain how it surrounds the breast. It really helps alleviate anxiety."

Patients notice the difference right away. "In general, even before the new equipment, patients who came in for their first mammogram were surprised that the experience wasn't nearly as uncomfortable as others make it out to be. Now with the new system, it's even better!"

Reason #2: "I'm Afraid of What They'll Find."
For some women, the fear of getting bad news feels worse than the fear of discomfort. Whitney hears this a lot, especially from women who have delayed their screenings for a few years.

"I reassure them that earlier detection makes treatment easier," she says. "If we do find something, we usually find it much earlier than if you waited until you felt a lump or had symptoms. That gives you more options and a much better chance for successful treatment."

And remember - a call back after your mammogram doesn't always mean cancer.

"Sometimes we just need to get a better look or take a few extra pictures," Whitney explains. "Getting called back isn't uncommon, and it's not always bad news."

The bottom line: waiting doesn't make the risk go away - it just delays action. "I always tell my patients, don't let fear stop you from taking care of yourself," Whitney says. "The peace of mind that comes from knowing your results is far better than the stress of worrying what might be there."

Reason #3: "I Don't Have Time."
Life is busy, but your health has to come first. ASIA makes it as easy as possible to fit a screening into your schedule.

"We're open until 7pm Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and we're open every other Saturday,* Whitney says. "Most appointments are quick, with hardly any wait. You can be in and out and back to your day before you know it."

Your Future Self Will Thank You
For Whitney, mammography is about more than just images - it's about helping women take charge of their health. "I love talking to my patients and seeing them year after year," she says. "We develop a relationship, and I'm proud knowing l'm part of keeping them healthy."

Her advice if you're still on the fence?
"Don't let other people's experiences scare you," she encourages. "Modern equipment has made mammograms so much more comfortable and faster. Just call, schedule it, and take that step for yourself. Your future self will thank you."

Screening mammograms require a prescription or imaging order from your primary care physician or OB/GYN. You or your provider's office can fax your mammography order to Advanced Shore Imaging Associates at 609-377-8249. To schedule your mammography appointment at ASIA, call 609-380-4175. The imaging center is located at 2605 Shore Road in Northfield. To learn more, visit https://www.advancedshoreimaging.com.